SOMERSWORTH — A motion by City Councilor David Witham to hold a public hearing Monday night regarding the choice of the city’s ambulance service did not receive a second at the City Council meeting, so no action was taken.

Requests for proposals between American Medical Response, Careplus Ambulance Services and American Ambulance Service are the services in consideration.

“I will take the vote very seriously. When you’re talking about an ambulance service, you’re talking about lives. The people that matter are the citizens and tax payers. You have to look into the thickness of it of what a company will offer you,” Councilor Dale Sprague said.

Witham said he was concerned with AMR sharing contracts with Berwick, Maine.

A number of former AMR employees have switched services and now work for American Ambulance Service in the Somersworth location, according to Brendan McNiff, chief operating officer for the American Ambulance New England operation.

We’re bringing the best of the best with us,” said Robidas in that same public statement. “From ‘Day 1,’ we will have area expertise and facility experience in every ambulance and answering every phone call.”

Chris Stawasz, AMR general manager, told Foster’s he intends for his company to hold on to municipalities.

“I don’t focus on the competition, I focus on what we do. We are very confident our ability to serve the Seacoast is stronger then ever,” he said recently.

AMR Seacoast employs 50 paramedics and EMTs. They provide 911 service, interfacility transfers, bariatric services, wheelchair services, and special event coverage. They have been in business locally for 30 years, according to a public statement.

Stawasz additionally mentioned that AAS is owned by a foreign entity that primarily focuses on fire suppression.

“At the end of the day we have deep roots in Somersworth, we welcome competition, but again we are confident with our services,” he said.